While the tank chase provides the action, the arrival of at the Performance Floor provides the emotional weight. His delivery of a battered Momonosuke to Kaido and Orochi serves as a grim reminder of the betrayal the Scabbards faced. This moment heightens the stakes for the Raid—Momonosuke is no longer just a figurehead; he is a hostage whose survival is the linchpin for Wano's future. Production and Atmosphere
More details on the revealed by Kaido.
Episode 989 is a vital gear in the Wano machinery. It bridges the gap between the initial infiltration and the total war to follow. By focusing on the "smaller" members of the crew, it reminds the audience that every member of the Grand Fleet is essential to taking down the Emperors of the Sea. If you'd like to dive deeper, One Piece Episode 989